Options to stay around the Rajaji National Park are not too many. There are some (quite overpriced, we thought) private resorts on the fringes of the jungle, or one can drive all the way from Haridwar (nah - not for me). And then there's the GMVN Tourist Resort at Chilla, just about a kilometre away from the entry gate to the Park itself.
GMVN tourist bungalows are most often built in the most desirable of locations, but need not be the most swanky or offer the best service. We booked 2 double rooms for 2 nights (23-25 December 2016) online, and were happy that we got reservations at all on the Christmas weekend.
Once we arrived, we were pleasantly surprised. The place looked freshly renovated, and there were a dozen timber cottages, recently constructed. The reception staff and the manager were polite and cooperative, and asked whether we would like to take a look at the family cottages on offer, before we settled into our rooms.
The suites looked so inviting that we decided to switch to an available 4 -bedded suite, each of which is a standalone timber cottage, after paying the difference. In the times of demonetization, they accepted IMPS payment - their bank details were prominently displayed, and in a matter of minutes, the payment was done.
The suites comprised two double-bedded rooms, each with its own toilet & bathroom, both air-conditioned (which was not required, given the ambient temperature) - plus a living area with TV and sofas, and a lobby space. An electric kettle was available, but sorely missed was supplies to make your own tea/coffee. Since we carry our own supplies of tea/coffee at all times, this was a minor inconvenience to us.
The beds are king-size, so kids don't need extra cots. The balcony outside is a peaceful place to sit out with a cup of tea, but one needs to ask for chairs (or pull up a few from the park).
Liquor and outside food are banned, but not really enforced - so, many guests were seen indulging in their favourite tipple, but mercifully none of the groups turned boisterous.
A short session outside with the camera on a tripod, and here are the results. It was turning quite chilly, and the rest of the evening was spent indoors.
Meals can be had in the dining room or ordered from room service. Basic good food, but ordering a la carte is better (and more economical) than the buffet.
Sufficient parking space is available in the compound for at least a dozen cars.